Fire and explosion at Hanson Pines draws police, fire crews; blaze quickly doused

Amid the blaze they found what appeared to be an encampment in a wooded area, however no occupants were found at the site. (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - Rochester Police are reminding the public that camping on city property is prohibited following a fire earlier this week at what appears to be a homeless encampment in Hanson Pines.

Police and fire responded to reports of a fire and explosion on Monday around 6:45 p.m. When they arrived they found a raging fire behind Dominicus Court not far from Spaulding High School.

Amid the blaze they found what appeared to be an encampment in a wooded area, however no occupants were found at the site, according to a release from the city. The Rochester Fire Department was able to extinguish the fire quickly.

The police also want to remind the public it is unlawful to camp or park any vehicle or recreational vehicle either overnight or for any two-hour period between dusk and dawn on any city-owned land within Rochester.